5 Best Gaming Keyboards from HP India
Look at any serious gamer’s setup, and you’re sure to discover a shiny gaming keyboard. That said, the sheer number of options available in the market can make choosing the best gaming keyboard a formidable task. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different kinds of keyboards available today and the most important specs to consider when purchasing one - from key rollover to backlighting. We’ll also walk you through the best gaming keyboards in India we’ve handpicked for you.

The types of specialty gaming keyboards

When it comes to gaming keyboards, there are several different types available, with each having its unique benefits and features.

  • Mechanical gaming keyboards: These are widely regarded as the gold standard of gaming thanks to their very tactile response. The term “mechanical” justifies the construction of these keyboards. The switches use metal components, springs, and contacts, creating a nice clicking sound on each keypress. Among the most responsive keyboards available today, they’re perfect for competitive gaming, where even a millisecond can make a difference between victory and defeat.
  • Membrane keyboards: These keyboards use a rubber dome seated beneath each key for tactile feedback. However, they’re not as responsive as mechanical keyboards, though they’re definitely more affordable. A great choice for serious gamers who need a quieter keyboard, which can also come in handy when you’re gaming from a coworking space, for example.
  • Hybrid keyboards: These blend the best of both worlds with both mechanical and membrane-based switches. The most frequently used keys are mechanical. You get nice tactile and audible feedback minus the high costs of mechanical keyboards.
  • Optical gaming keyboards: These are increasingly gaining popularity among gamers for their fast response times. Optical keyboards use infrared light to detect keystrokes. They’re faster and more durable than mechanical keyboards as they don’t rely on mechanical contact to register keypresses.
  • Tenkeyless (TKL) gaming keyboards: These keyboards omit the number pad in favour of a small and sleek design. The choice of a full-sized vs tenkeyless keyboard ultimately depends on the personal preferences of a gamer, as some prefer to use all possible keys on the keyboard while others need a clutter-free experience with only the essential keys.
  • Programmable gaming keyboards: As the name suggests, these have programmable keys, which can be assigned commands. Gamers can execute complex actions and perform repetitive tasks with relative ease.
  • RGB Keyboards: These have keys with individual LEDs that can be configured to assign customised patterns and colours according to your preferences. You can use these keyboards to create specific colour schemes for each individual game.
  • Ergonomic gaming keyboards: Ergonomic keyboards are designed to minimise the strain on your fingers and hands during long and intense gameplay. The design and layout are optimised to keep your hands in a natural position for maximal comfort.
  • Wired gaming keyboards: These keyboards connect to your computer over a wired connection, most commonly USB. They’re the best choice for competitive gaming as they offer extremely low latency levels compared to wireless keyboards.
  • Wireless gaming keyboards: These keyboards connect to your system over a wireless connection like Bluetooth or other protocols. They’re super convenient for those who like to keep their gaming desks clutter-free. However, they have higher response times than wired keyboards.

Specs to consider when buying a gaming PC keyboard

There are several factors to consider when you invest in a gaming keyboard to ensure a seamless gaming experience. We’ll discuss them all here from the point of view of both amateurs and seasoned pros.

Switch type

Pro gamers will typically choose mechanical switches for their tactile feel and blazing-fast response times. Other options include membrane and optical, which may be preferable depending on your specific requirements and budget. If you need a long-lasting keyboard, optical designs are the most durable. Membrane keyboards, on the other hand, are best for amateur gamers who need a pocket-friendly gaming keyboard.

Response time

This is the amount of time that elapses between a key being pressed, and the keypress being actually registered on the system. When it comes to gaming, every split-second matters, so the lower the response time of a keyboard, the better it will perform.

Key rollover and anti-ghosting

Key rollover is the number of simultaneous keystrokes a keyboard can accurately register. A good gaming keyboard will have, at the very least, a 6-key rollover. Some advanced keyboards offer N-key rollover (also called NKRO), which means they can register all individual keystrokes on the keyboard at once without errors. The technology helps eliminate ghosting, which happens when erroneous keystrokes are registered on simultaneous keypresses.

Programmability

Some gaming keyboards offer programmable keys, which users can assign specific commands to manoeuvre action during gameplay, for example. If you’re looking for a customisable keyboard for specific games, a programmable keyboard will be best for productive game sessions.

Durability

An important aspect to consider when choosing a gaming keyboard is its build quality. Look for solid and robust constructions, as those keyboards will last you several game sessions without extensive maintenance and repairs. 

Compatibility

It’s important to consider your current gaming setup, including your laptop, PC, and gaming consoles. Make sure you choose a gaming keyboard that is compatible with your device’s OS. Keys can significantly differ between platforms, so make sure you choose the right model. You should also consider the keyboard layout - while QWERTY remains the most popular, there are other options like AZERTY preferred in specific regions around the world.

Connectivity

Most pro and serious gamers will choose wired USB keyboards for the lowest latency possible. That said, wireless keyboards can be handy if you’re switching between multiple CPU systems all the time.

Environmental impact

Last but not least, it’s imperative to consider the environmental impact of the gaming keyboard you invest in. Everything from the choice of materials to the way keyboard components are sourced has a direct bearing on its environmental footprint. 

The best gaming keyboards for beginners and pros

If you’re looking for an HP gaming keyboard, we’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at some of the best gaming keyboards in India for beginners and pros.

1. HyperX Alloy Core RGB - Gaming Keyboard

1. HyperX Alloy Core RGB - Gaming Keyboard
The HyperX Alloy Core RGB is a gaming keyboard perfect for those who need powerful performance at a reasonable price. The keyboard features the legendary HyperX light bar with a variety of built-in RGB effects to amp up your games. 

You get multi-colour customisation to configure your keyboard your way. The keyboard features five individual RGB zones that can be individually coloured. 

The membrane-based keyboard has been engineered for a unique tactile feel optimised for gaming. It also features key rollover and anti-ghosting technology to accurately detect simultaneous keystrokes.

The HyperX keyboard is spill-resistant and features a durable plastic frame. The keyboard can be instantly locked, which comes in handy when you want to prevent accidental keypresses.

You also get dedicated media control buttons to control system volume and play and pause music and sound effects with a single keypress. Dedicated buttons for quick access let you change to game mode, and configure lighting and brightness to your liking.

The keyboard supports Windows, PS5™, PS4™, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One™.

2. HyperX Alloy Origins - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

2. HyperX Alloy Origins - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
HyperX Alloy Origins - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is for pro gamers who need class-leading performance with no compromises on any front. The keyboard features HyperX Red Linear mechanical switches, which are rated for 80 million keystrokes and are among the fastest mechanical switches from the brand.

The keyboard is engineered from a full aircraft-grade aluminium body which secures keys in place and keeps the keyboard stable and unbalanced during the most intense battles.

The HyperX Alloy Origins keyboard is lightweight and portable, fitting most desks with ease. It features a detachable USB-C cable, so you can quickly unmount the keyboard and take it with you everywhere. 

The keyboard tile angle is adjustable for the most comfortable experience. It also has three onboard memory profiles for custom light designs. The keyboard has per-key RGB lighting, which can be customised with the provided HyperX NGENUITY software. You can even set up complex macros with the tool to make the most of your keyboard.

Worry no more about key rollovers with premium-grade anti-ghosting and N-key rollover capabilities built right in to free you to focus on your game. The keyboard is compatible with Windows, PS5™, PS4™, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One™.

3. HyperX Alloy Origins Core - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

3. HyperX Alloy Origins Core - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
HyperX Alloy Origins Core - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features an ultra-compact tenkeyless design. This gives you that critical extra space for mouse movements just when you need it, and makes it possible to fit the keyboard into tight spaces without problems.

The keyboard uses HyperX Red Linear switches for fast response times and superior accuracy. A full aircraft-grade aluminium body keeps the frame extremely durable and balanced. You can also remove the detachable USB-C cable when you’re on the move.

The keyboard features per-key RGB lighting with exposed LEDs for stunning effects. Like the HyperX Alloy Origins, it has three adjustable keyboard tilt angles and onboard memory for three profiles. You also get N-key rollover with anti-ghosting technology.

The keyboard supports Windows, PS5™, PS4™, Xbox One™, and Xbox Series X/S.

4. HP BL GK320 HP Black Gaming M Keyboard

4. HP BL GK320 HP Black Gaming M Keyboard
HP BL GK320 is perfect for serious gamers who need best-in-class performance with mechanical switches at a very affordable price. 

It uses blue mechanical switches for accurate keystroke registers and has a lifespan exceeding 50 million keypresses. The keyboard offers rich tactile feedback and has dazzling RGB backlighting effects. An integrated gaming chipset ensures low latency and response times.

N-key rollover prevents ghosting issues and ensures none of your commands are ever missed. Every design aspect of the keyboard has been carefully optimised for top-notch gaming experiences. The keycaps are made with double injection technology to prevent fading. 

5. HP Gaming Keyboard K500F

5. HP Gaming Keyboard K500F
HP Gaming Keyboard K500F is a membrane keyboard optimised to elevate your gaming experience with a highly ergonomic design to keep your fingers stress-free. Though the keys are membrane-based, they still retain a mechanical touch and feel, making this keyboard perfect for amateur gamers who’re looking to upgrade their keyboard.

The keycaps are made via double injection technology to make them wear-resistant. The logo LED and RGB lighting create atmospheric effects to complete your games. You can configure the backlight brightness as per your preference. 

The metal panel is highly durable and sleek with a high and low ley layout, lending the keyboard a stylish and minimalistic look. The keyboard features a 26-key rollover with anti-ghosting technology to accurately register multiple keystrokes.

The keyboard features a magnetic ring USB to eliminate noise and interference, so nothing ever comes in between you and your game.

Experience unmatched gaming precision

The keyboard is often the most direct interface every gamer has to their game. Choosing the right gaming keyboard can drastically alter your gaming experience. Make sure you consider the key rollover, response time, switch type, and connectivity when you select a keyboard for your gaming needs.

About the Author: Vidhu Jain is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. A Fortune 500 experienced brand storyteller, she’s a voracious reader who loves travelling and exploring the world.